Dr. Mary E. Walker is the only woman in the United States history to receive the Medal of Honor. She became one of the first women physicians in the country in 1855. At the outbreak of war in 1861, Dr. Walker was denied a commission as an Army surgeon because of her gender. She served as an unpaid volunteer in Washington, in various military camps, and in a hospital for Indiana troops.

She was instrumental in establishing an organization which aided needy women who came to Washington to visit wounded relatives. She served as a field surgeon on a volunteer basis, rendering assistance at tent hospitals in Virginia. She was eventually appointed as an assistant surgeon and assigned to the 52d Ohio Regiment.

With immense courage and bravery rarely matched, Dr. Walker demonstrated her dedication to the American cause at great personal risk. She consistently discounted personal injuries and great hardships to care for others. She was captured and held a prisoner of war for four months before being freed in a prisoner exchange. Through her actions, Dr. Mary E. Walker set the standards for helping to improve soldiers� quality of life for generations.